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Muslim Holidays

Islamic New Year (Muharram 1) Al Hijra (Islamic New Year) -- commemorates the migration of Mohammed and his followers to Medina in 622 C.E, the establishment of first Islamic state. The date begins the Islamic calendar year. No specific religious rituals are observed.

Isra' & Mi'raj - Commemorationg Muhhamad's journey from Mecca to Jerusalem and then up to heaven in one night. Night of journey of Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him) from Makkah to Jerusalem and then his ascension to heavens occured in the year 620 C.E. Muslims remember this day with gatherings held in mosques and homes and the whole story is told in peotry, chants, or lectures. Sweets or food are distributed.

Ramadan - Each year, Muslims spend a month in daytime fasting, during the 9th month of the Islamic calendar called Ramadan.

Begin Ramadan - a time of fasting, generosity, and reflection.

Laylat al-Qadr - Towards the end of Ramadan, Muslims observe the "Night of Power," which is when the first verses of the Qur'an were revealed to Muhammad. Commemorates the first revelation of the Qu'ran to Muslim Prophet Muhammad by the Angel Gabriel in 610 CE.

Eid al-Fitr - At the end of Ramadan, Muslims celebrate "The Festival of Fast-Breaking." The significance of Eid is that it is the day of thanksgiving to Allah that He gve the opportunity to Muslims to benefit from and enjoy the blessing of the month of Ramadhan.

Hajj - Each year during the 12th month of the Islamic calendar, millions of Muslims make an annual pilgrimage to Mecca, Saudi Arabia called Hajj.

Begin Hajj -

Day of Arafat - A day near the end of the Hajj when pilgrims gather at the Plain of Arafat to seek God's mercy, and Muslims elsewhere fast for the day. It was from this site that the Prophet Muhammad gave his Farewell Sermon.

Eid al-Adha - At the end of the annual pilgrimage, Muslims celebrate "The Festival of Sacrifice," which commemorates Abraham's willingness to sacrifice his son in obedience to God. A 3 day celebration for Muslims around the world whether they are making the Hajj or not.